Chelsea's controversial manager Jose Mourinho has left the London club in a surprise move announced after his side's poor draw to Rosenborg in a Champions League tie at home.

The draw against the Norwegian side is the third game in a row the current FA Cup and Carling Cup champions have failed to win

The man who brough Michael Essien to Chelsea has reportedly sent text messages to senior players at the club informing them about his decision. The Press Association reports that the former Porto manager will make his final appearance at the club at its training ground today.

Essien was one of several players brought to Chelsea by "the special one". And the Ghana international has been one of his best signings. He cost £24.4m from Lyon two years ago but soon showed his worth both as a central midfielder but also, when required, at right-back where he has produced some of his best performances.

Mourinho, who has won every domestic trophy available, has led his side to the semifinals of the Champions League twice, but has never won the most prestigious club title with Chelsea.

A statement on the Chelsea website confirmed: "Chelsea Football Club and Jose Mourinho have agreed to part company today (Thursday) by mutual consent."

Mourinho still had three years left on a contract worth a staggering £6.5million a year.

Terry blow-up led to Mourinho's Chelsea exit

Jose Mourinho left Chelsea after an amazing row with captain John Terry, it has been revealed.
The Sun says Mourinho had become increasingly frustrated by Terry's recent performances.
And he had even raised the issue with the club's medical department to see if they had an explanation.
But when centre-back Terry heard what Mourinho had done he reacted furiously.
And the England star had heated exchanges with the Blues boss before and after Tuesday's dire 1-1 Champions League draw at home to minnows Rosenborg.
A club source revealed: "News of their row reached the club's directors, who were concerned it was proof that Jose was losing the dressing room."